When a customer came into the branch to deposit a check he’d received from someone he’d met online, Joel’s training and experience told him to pause. The details didn’t add up, the check looked questionable, and the situation had all the hallmarks of a scam. Trusting his expertise, Joel let the customer know the check couldn’t be deposited.
What happened next – and how Joel ultimately prevented the customer from falling victim to the scam – is a story worth reading.
Why did the customer visit the branch?
Joel: The customer visited the branch twice asking if they could deposit a check they received from a woman they had met online.
What raised concern about the check?
Joel: The story behind the payment and the appearance of the check contained multiple red flags, indicating it was likely fraudulent.
How did the bank respond?
Joel: We informed the customer that the check could not be deposited due to the risk of fraud. He was appreciative of the guidance.
What happened during their second visit?
Joel: The customer asked if we could "deposit it without depositing it’ to verify the check’s legitimacy.
What new information came to light?
Joel: The customer disclosed that they had been instructed to forward part of the funds to the woman’s “manager,” who supposedly would send them a vehicle afterward.
What action did you take?
Joel: We explained that it was a scam, declined the deposit. Then I sent a copy of the check to our Fraud Team for further review.
Tips for Customers to Avoid Similar Scams
- Be cautious with online relationships
- Scammers often build trust over time before introducing financial requests.
- If someone you’ve never met asks for money, it’s a major warning sign.
- Never deposit or cash checks for someone you don’t personally know
- Fraudulent checks can look completely legitimate.
- When the check bounces, you are responsible for the amount.
- Don’t agree to send or forward money for others
- Any request to “pass money along” or “send funds to a manager/agent” is a common scam tactic.
- Legitimate businesses and individuals do not operate this way.
- Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true
- Promises of free vehicles, gifts, or large payments in exchange for small tasks are almost always fraudulent.
- Contact your bank before taking action
- We can help verify concerns before any funds are deposited or sent.
- Asking questions early can prevent financial loss and protect personal information.
- Stop communication if something feels off
- Scammers often coach victims to avoid suspicion – pressuring them to act quickly or keep secrets.
- Ending contact immediately helps stop the scam in its tracks.
When you meet someone online, always proceed with caution and take time to verify who you’re really talking to. You should never send money to someone you haven’t met in person, and you should avoid sharing personal or banking information with online contacts. It’s also a good idea to reverse‑image search their photos to check whether the images have been stolen or used elsewhere. Most importantly, talk to your bank or a trusted person if something feels off – scammers rely heavily on secrecy to succeed.